Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto
Senator representing Sokoto Central in the National Assembly, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko, yesterday paid N4 million as fine, compensation and debts to facilitate the release of 34 inmates of various prisons in Sokoto State.
Speaking in Sokoto yesterday, Wamakko said the gesture was extended to the freed inmates under the Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko Free Legal Services Foundation.
He stated that each of the freed inmates was given N 20,000 to transport themselves back to their various towns and villages.
The former governor, who was represented by Mr. Bashiru Mu’azu, said the gesture was part of efforts of the foundation to reduce congestion in the prisons.
He maintained that it was aimed at assisting the freed inmates to celebrate the forthcoming Eid-el-Fitr celebrations with their families.
The lawmaker cautioned them against indulging in any acts capable of bringing them back to the prison, as well as keep to their financial obligations.
‘’This is an opportunity for you to turn a new leaf and be a responsible person in the society.
“You should be of good behaviour, be good ambassadors of your families, as well as strive to be productive citizens,†Wamakko advised.
The Secretary of the Foundation, Mr. Abdulhamid Zubairu, said the exercise was carried out to meet the cardinal principles and objectives of assisting the less privileged and indigent litigants who are languishing in prison custody.
According to him, the foundation also represents some inmates in court, who are in dire need of legal representation, absence of which kept them in prison custody.
In a remark, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), in the state, Mr. Lema Wali, who spoke through his Secretary, Mr. Kabir Mohammed, commended Wamakko for the gesture.
He urged other wealthy individuals in the state to emulate the lawmaker and promised to partner with other individuals and organisations in that regard
The freed inmates included an 18-year old girl and others serving their jail terms in Sokoto Central, Gwadabawa, Bissalam, Tambuwal and Wurno prisons.
